The peaches growing on my grandfather's backyard tree were some of the sweetest in town. An idea came to me after mowing the grass around it one hot summer day. Why not plant some of my own from his seedlings and eventually sell them on the side of the road for some cash.

In my 10-year-old logic, if you planted a tree it should bear fruit very soon. A dozen trees were planted beside our home. They were watered daily. It should take a month, maybe two, right? Few kids take the long term approach. We want things now and we don't want to wait. Adults, too.

University of Oklahoma's first president David Ross Boyd planted hundreds of trees around OU campus, knowing full well he would not see them to maturity. The same thing is happening today as we replace trees that fell victim to December's ice storm.

Put down hardwoods that will last generations and your legacy is secure.

nnn

One person whose legacy has transcended generations and amazes all whom she encounters is Doris Eaton Travis of Norman.

Travis, at age 104, just returned from a performance for two sold-out shows at the Minskoff Theater in New York City. She is the last of the original Ziegfield Girls and joined a host of stars on stage for the event which benefits Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Her dance partner was her longtime staff member, William George. She choreographed a swing number and video taped it at her Norman ranch. A Broadway cast of eight dancers joined them on stage for the show's finale.

"It was incredible," George said. "The minute we walked on stage, the whole place jumped to their feet and began applauding. She was just electric."

nnn

It was a Kodak moment that got away.

Five Norman mayors were together in a room. The occasion was the Norman Business Association's Business Legend Award given to Dick Reynolds.

Mayors in the audience, besides Reynolds, were Bob Thompson, Bill Nations, Ron Henderson and Harold Haralson. One left before we could take the picture.

Reynolds, a longtime car dealership owner, recalled battles fought at City Hall. Nations recalled the tough economic times faced by the community and Reynolds' leadership. Nations and Thompson said they got involved in public service because of Reynolds.

Andy Rieger 366-3543 editor@normantranscript.com